“The best way to solve a problem is to solve it together”. – Unknown

Hackathon is a program which aims towards creating digital solutions regarding a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and in need to be dealt with and overcome in communities in Jordan.

With generous support by the U.S. Department of States, the American Spaces department, Three hackathons were implemented over the past few months in order to discover creative solutions regarding each matter, and deliver quality trainings on three thematic areas; Climate change, STEAM, and Tourism and Cultural Heritage.

WA American Corner in Irbid Hackathon:

This hackathon was based on problem-solving through STEAM; Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. 

The main focus was on finding solutions for the various challenges and problems within communities in Jordan. Based on this generation’s interest and passion in STEAM, In partnership with the EV team, WA organized a STEAM-focused event featuring a three-day training followed by a two-day hackathon.

19 Individuals were divided into three teams and each team has focused on one problem and created solutions for them. Solutions included an AI powered app for the visually impaired, a tourism website, and a website offering free PSS services. The tourism website emerged victorious. 

Jordan Heritage Hackathon:

Jordan is a country hefty in culture and history and the responsibility of preserving them is rooted in the hearts and beliefs of one generation followed by the other. Therefore, held in collaboration with the EV and Jordan Heritage teams, this hackathon focused on cultural preservation and tourism.

23 Participants have effectively participated in this hackathon, they were divided into three collaborative teams, The three teams proposed ideas including; a monthly cultural event in Al Salt, a website for archiving cultural heritage, and enhancing an existing trail with cultural experiences. 

The cultural event proposal won and had moved to implementation on May 5, 2024.

Balcona for Human Development Hackathon:

“The environment is where we all meet; where all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share”. Lady Bird Johnson. 

Under this mindset, At Balacona for Human Development in Sahab, WA and the EV team hosted a three-day training on climate change and environmental challenges in Jordan with major focus on Water Scarcity, followed by a two-day hackathon. Several trainers have been involved in the training. In addition to the 27 Participants who have been divided into 3 teams, each team has presented innovative solutions such as distributing recycled bins with QR codes, creating a podcast on environmental issues, and producing a short documentary film. 

The winning team has produced a short documentary film addressing the matter and has been implemented starting July, 2024.